Why is the Lockwood Lane underpass closed?

The Lockwood Lane underpass has been closed due to a car being deliberately set on fire on 1 July 2023. This has resulted in significant structural damage to mainly the subway roof. The closure was implemented to ensure public safety while the damage is assessed. The risk is that the subway could collapse with the loading of the traffic on the A635 Dearne Valley Parkway.  We'll keep the public informed above any updates. 

How long will the underpass and Dearne Valley Parkway be closed?

At this time, we cannot determine the exact duration of the closure. The subway and the A635 Dearne Valley Parkway will remain closed until we complete comprehensive inspections and testing to assess the subway's structural integrity.  This will help determine the correct solution to repair the subway which will enable the bypass to be reopened. We will keep the public informed about any updates.

What measures are being taken to secure the underpass during the closure?

To secure the underpass and prevent unauthorised access, permanent fencing had now been installed at both entrances of the Lockwood Lane subway.

How will the closure affect local traffic and commuting routes?

We have a diversion route in place. The traffic heading towards Doncaster will be diverted onto Barrowfield Road and Lidget Lane. The traffic heading towards Barnsley will be diverted onto Doncaster Road and Barnsley Road through Goldthorpe town centre.

Please follow the indicated diversions and plan your journeys accordingly. 

Dearne Valley Parkway road closure

• Red Line - road closed
• Green line - new diversion route for Barnsley-bound traffic
• Purple line - new diversion route for Doncaster-bound traffic

If you need more details about this map then please call us on (01226) 773555.

Will pedestrians and cyclists be affected by the closure?

As part of the closure, the underpass has been closed to public access, including pedestrians and cyclists. For their safety, we urge everyone to avoid attempting to access the closed area and to use alternative routes during this time.

When will the inspection and testing process be completed?

The specialist consultant has completed the programme of testing and assessment of the roof slab of the subway. The results of this testing and assessment have been provisionally analysed. This has identified the extent of the damage to the subway and the effects on the structural integrity of the subway structure.

When will the bypass be re-opened?

Work has already begun on enabling the opening of the bypass. It will be necessary to carry out temporary works to allow the bypass to be opened. Once completed, the appropriate traffic management arrangements will be applied to the bypass and diversion routes removed.

When will the subway be re-opened?

The detailed design to rectify the damage and the procurement of a specialist contractor to undertake the works will take time to finalise. It's not yet possible to say when the repair works can begin. We'll work to do this as soon as possible.

How will updates be communicated to local residents?

We’ll continue to update this webpage as work progresses. Regular updates will also be posted on our Facebook page and other social media channels. 

How can you seek additional information?

We understand that this closure may raise concerns among local residents and visitors. We'll update this page as our work progresses. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time. Your safety remains our top priority, and we're committed to resolving the situation as swiftly as possible.

How can you help?

The delays to opening the road are a consequence of the constant vandalism to the security measures on site. If you have any information about the incident itself or the recent vandalism of the Lockwood Road subway, please contact safer@barnsley.gov.uk. You can also help by not attempting to enter the subway or the area around it.